I've been reading Robert Greene's 48 Laws of Power recently, and throughout this essay, I can't help but think just how all the "moves" Zuckerburg were accused (and infamous) of were exemplary of a number of these laws. Not trying to pass judgement on Zuckerburg's virtues or lack thereof (it's best to accept the inherent unfairness in life on the road to power), but he is a master of power plays:
Law 3: Never put too much trust in friends, learn how to use enemies.
If only Zuck's "friends" knew about the first part of the law. Zuck was, however, a master in exploiting and gaining information from his "enemies". Further, he used what his competitions to frame what his product should be.
Law 4: Conceal your intentions.
"Keep people off-balance and in the dark by never revealing the purpose behind your actions" -- apparent in both the Winklevoss and Greenspan's stories. Zuck misled and deceived until the right time.
Law 5: Always say less than necessary...classic Zuck, "There was a need for facebook, so I made it"
Law 6: Court attention at all cost.
His fight to receive coverage in the Crimson ensuring the early dominance of thefacebook.
Law 7: Get others to do the work for you, but always take the credit.
If any of the stories about facebook is true, then Zuck's a textbook example of observing this law. According to Greene: using other people's work "not only will [...] save you valuable time and energy, it will give you a godlike aura of efficiency and speed". Clearly it has worked to achieve his "genius" aura.
Law 9: Win through your actions, never through argument.
He never let the lawsuits detract him away from the work too much. Now that facebook is too big, what actually happened really doesn't matter anymore.
Law 11: Learn to keep people dependent on you.
Facebook is too big now...G_G
Law 12: Use selective honesty and generosity to disarm your victim.
The part about facebook's frequent change and backtracks of privacy must has something to do with this.
Law 13: When asking for help, appeal to people's self-interest, never to their mercy or gratitude.
Zuckerburg appealed to Greenspan's desire to help entrepreneurs when asking for advice. Also, his claim that Greenspan was one of those on his level can be seen more of a classic ego-stroking rather than admission of admiration.
Law 14: Pose as a friend, work as a spy.
"Knowing about your rival is critical. Play the spy yourself to gather valuable information that will keep you a step ahead. [...] There is no occasion that is not an opportunity for artful spying".
Yeah, Zuck's a master at this.
Law 15: Crush your enemey totally.
Check.
So out of the first 18 laws, the rise of facebook and Zuckerburg have observed 11, textbook style. His amoral approach to power and life is definitely key to his success.